top of page
Search
Writer's picture Dr. Dharita Patel

What Is Ayurveda?

The word “Ayu” means all aspects of life from birth to death, and the word “Veda” means knowledge or learning. Ayurveda is one of the great gifts of the sages of ancient India to humanity. However, it is not only the system of medicine in the conventional sense of curing diseases. It is also a way of life that teaches us how to maintain and protect health. It shows us both how to cure disease and how to promote longevity. Therefore it is a truly holistic and integral medical system.

In Sanskrit, Ayurveda means “The science of Life”. In Ayurveda, perfect health is defined as “a balance between body, mind, spirit and social well-being”. It originated in India more than 5000 years ago and is often called “The Mother of All Healing”. Ayurvedic science is not only a traditional Indian medicine form but a long-lasting naturopathic healthcare system. Though it is originated in India today, Ayurveda is widely accepted across the globe. Ayurveda places great emphasis on prevention and encourages the maintenance of health through close attention to balance in one’s life, diet, lifestyle and the use of herbs.



To understand Ayurveda, it is essential to know its basic concepts. These are the backbone of Ayurvedic philosophy. Ayurvedic approach to healthcare is based on the following elements.


  • Panchamahabhuta (The Five Essential Elements)

  • Doshas (Biological Elements)

  • Dhatus (Basic Tissues)

  • Malas (Waste Products)

  • Agni (Biological Fire)


Ayurvedic Prakriti (Constitution)



Ayurveda believes all the above elements are present in everyone and everything. Everyone has an exclusive mix of three Doshas composing psychological, physical and spiritual well-being. These three elements are Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Our body behaves according to the status of Dosha Prakriti. The cause of disease in Ayurveda is viewed as a lack of proper cellular function due to an excess or deficiency of Vata, Pitta or Kapha. Without knowledge of one’s Prakriti, it is impossible to apply Ayurvedic fundamentals in prevention, promotion and cure of disease. Knowledge of Ayurveda enables one to understand how to create the Balance of Body, mind and soul.

Ayurveda does not focus only on disease; instead, Ayurveda maintains that all lives must be supported by energy in balance. Ayurveda addresses all aspects of life. It recognizes that each of us is unique, each response differently to the many aspects of life, each possesses different strengths and weaknesses.

Here at our Nisarg Ayurveda Centre, we present a vast wealth of information for each unique individual. We will have a look at your “Prakriti” or dosha constitution, eating habits, work-life and everyday routine to search for the part which is creating an imbalance. Based on this analysis, we work with our clients to promote their physical and mental health to prevent illness through lifestyle changes, herbal medicines, yoga therapies, dietary changes, Panchakarma therapies etc.





101 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page